Arlington TX Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog postshttps://www.markcabal.com/blog/Copyright MarkCabal.com2021-03-03T11:57:57-07:00tag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:8453January’s sales of existing homes rose 23.7% from January 2020.NAR released a summary of existing-home sales data showing that housing market activity this January rose modestly 0.6% from December 2020. January’s existing home sales reached a 6.69 million seasonally adjusted annual rate. January’s sales of existing homes rose 23.7% from January 2020.
<img src="https://cdn.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/styles/inline_paragraph_image/public/economists-outlook-us-existing-home-sales-january-2020-to-january-2021-line-graph-02-19-2021-1300w-639h.png?itok=Tg3c4_8H" width="1200" height="590" />2021-03-03T11:55:00-07:002021-03-03T11:57:57-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:8444Buyers Taking Big Risks To Win In DFW Housing Market2021-03-02T12:44:00-07:002021-03-02T12:54:02-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:7252Apple or Oranges?<img alt="" data-cke-saved-src="/secure/news/images/5simplegraphs.jpg" src="https://www.thewiseagent.com/secure/news/images/5simplegraphs.jpg" />
With all of the volatility in the stock market and uncertainty about the Coronavirus (COVID-19), some are concerned we may be headed for another housing crash like the one we experienced from 2006-2008. The feeling is understandable. Ali Wolf, Director of Economic Research at the real estate consulting firm Meyers Research, addressed this point in a <a data-cke-saved-href="https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/how-the-coming-recession-will-affect-the-housing-market/" href="https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/how-the-coming-recession-will-affect-the-housing-market/">recent interview</a>:
“With people having PTSD from the last time, they’re still afraid of buying at the wrong time.”
There are many reasons, however, indicating this real estate market is nothing like 2008. Here are five visuals to show the dramatic differences.
1. Mortgage standards are nothing like they were back then.
During the housing bubble, it was difficult NOT to get a mortgage. Today, it is tough to qualify. The Mortgage Bankers’ Association releases a <a data-cke-saved-href="https://www.mba.org/news-research-and-resources/research-and-economics/single-family-research/mortgage-credit-availability-index" href="https://www.mba.org/news-research-and-resources/research-and-economics/single-family-research/mortgage-credit-availability-index">Mortgage Credit Availability Index</a> which is “a summary measure which indicates the availability of mortgage credit at a point in time.” The higher the index, the easier it is to get a mortgage. As shown below, during the housing bubble, the index skyrocketed. Currently, the index shows how getting a mortgage is even more difficult than it was before the bubble.<a class="lightbox-added aligncenter" data-cke-saved-href="https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/14155058/20200316-NM-Eng-1.jpg" href="https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/14155058/20200316-NM-Eng-1.jpg"><img alt="5 Simple Graphs Proving This Is NOT Like the Last Time | Keeping Current Matters" class="aligncenter wp-image-2072530" height="310" data-cke-saved-src="https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/14155058/20200316-NM-Eng-1.jpg" src="https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/14155058/20200316-NM-Eng-1.jpg" width="550" /></a>
2. Prices are not soaring out of control.
Below is a graph showing annual house appreciation over the past six years, compared to the six years leading up to the height of the housing bubble. Though price appreciation has been quite strong recently, it is nowhere near the rise in prices that preceded the crash.<a class="lightbox-added aligncenter" data-cke-saved-href="https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/14155056/20200316-NM-Eng-2.jpg" href="https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/14155056/20200316-NM-Eng-2.jpg"><img alt="5 Simple Graphs Proving This Is NOT Like the Last Time | Keeping Current Matters" class="aligncenter wp-image-2072529" height="310" data-cke-saved-src="https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/14155056/20200316-NM-Eng-2.jpg" src="https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/14155056/20200316-NM-Eng-2.jpg" width="550" /></a>There’s a stark difference between these two periods of time. Normal appreciation is 3.6%, so while current appreciation is higher than the historic norm, it’s certainly not accelerating beyond control as it did in the early 2000s.
3. We don’t have a surplus of homes on the market. We have a shortage.
The months’ supply of inventory needed to sustain a normal real estate market is approximately six months. Anything more than that is an overabundance and will causes prices to depreciate. Anything less than that is a shortage and will lead to continued appreciation. As the next graph shows, there were too many homes for sale in 2007, and that caused prices to tumble. Today, there’s a shortage of inventory which is causing an acceleration in home values.<a class="lightbox-added aligncenter" data-cke-saved-href="https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/14155053/20200316-NM-Eng-3.jpg" href="https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/14155053/20200316-NM-Eng-3.jpg"><img alt="5 Simple Graphs Proving This Is NOT Like the Last Time | Keeping Current Matters" class="aligncenter wp-image-2072528" height="310" data-cke-saved-src="https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/14155053/20200316-NM-Eng-3.jpg" src="https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/14155053/20200316-NM-Eng-3.jpg" width="550" /></a>
4. Houses became too expensive to buy.
The affordability formula has three components: the price of the home, the wages earned by the purchaser, and the mortgage rate available at the time. Fourteen years ago, prices were high, wages were low, and mortgage rates were over 6%. Today, prices are still high. Wages, however, have increased and the mortgage rate is about 3.5%. That means the average family pays less of their monthly income toward their mortgage payment than they did back then. Here’s a graph showing that difference:<a class="lightbox-added aligncenter" data-cke-saved-href="https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/14155051/20200316-NM-Eng-4.jpg" href="https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/14155051/20200316-NM-Eng-4.jpg"><img alt="5 Simple Graphs Proving This Is NOT Like the Last Time | Keeping Current Matters" class="aligncenter wp-image-2072527" height="310" data-cke-saved-src="https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/14155051/20200316-NM-Eng-4.jpg" src="https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/14155051/20200316-NM-Eng-4.jpg" width="550" /></a>
5. People are equity rich, not tapped out.
In the run-up to the housing bubble, homeowners were using their homes as a personal ATM machine. Many immediately withdrew their equity once it built up, and they learned their lesson in the process. Prices have risen nicely over the last few years, leading to over fifty percent of homes in the country having greater than 50% equity. But owners have not been tapping into it like the last time. Here is a table comparing the equity withdrawal over the last three years compared to 2005, 2006, and 2007. Homeowners have cashed out over $500 billion dollars less than before:<a class="lightbox-added aligncenter" data-cke-saved-href="https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/14155048/20200316-NM-Eng-5.jpg" href="https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/14155048/20200316-NM-Eng-5.jpg"><img alt="5 Simple Graphs Proving This Is NOT Like the Last Time | Keeping Current Matters" class="aligncenter wp-image-2072526" height="310" data-cke-saved-src="https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/14155048/20200316-NM-Eng-5.jpg" src="https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/14155048/20200316-NM-Eng-5.jpg" width="550" /></a>During the crash, home values began to fall, and sellers found themselves in a negative equity situation (where the amount of the mortgage they owned was greater than the value of their home). Some decided to walk away from their homes, and that led to a rash of distressed property listings (foreclosures and short sales), which sold at huge discounts, thus lowering the value of other homes in the area. That can’t happen today.
Bottom Line
If you’re concerned we’re making the same mistakes that led to the housing crash, take a look at the charts and graphs above to help alleviate your fears.2020-06-23T08:04:00-07:002020-06-23T08:04:55-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:6874Use This Spring Clean-Up Guide To Enhance Your Home’s Curb Appeal
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Spring has sprung, which means it's the perfect time to get the outside of your home in top shape before the summer months. A little sprucing can go a long way with enhancing your home's curb appeal. In fact a property's outdoor appeal can dictate people's home buying decision.
2020-03-21T13:14:00-07:002020-03-17T13:16:28-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:687310 Important Tips To Prepare Your Garden For Springtime
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2020-03-19T13:07:00-07:002020-03-17T13:12:48-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:687126 Times Friends Nailed What It’s Like To Be A Real Estate Agent
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There hasn't been a new episode of Friends in yeeeears, but people still love and watch it. It's timeless, and there's at least a scene or two in each episode that resonates with people forever. They just nailed certain life situations so well... What they didn't realize, though, is how much some of the scenes...
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It's a new year, and with every new year comes new design trends-including in landscaping. The National Association of Landscape Professionals recently released their picks for the top landscaping trends of 2020. Some of the biggest trends poised to take over lawns across the US this year include: Multi-season landscape design.
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Is January the new April? When it comes to the real estate market, experts say yes. Regardless of whether that famous groundhog sees his shadow, a recent article on CNBC suggests spring will arrive early this year-at least when it comes to the housing market. In fact, some are speculating that January may very well...
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Remember when we first got together? People didn't think we'd last. Maybe they didn't always say it, but they thought it. "You could do so much better. Why would you be a real estate agent?" "What's your back-up plan?" "You should get a real job..." I'm sure they were well-intentioned.
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2020-02-13T14:28:00-07:002020-02-10T14:29:48-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:676012 She Sheds Cheryl Should See
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2020-02-12T14:24:00-07:002020-02-10T14:26:00-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:6758Average Credit Score In The US Hits 8-Year High
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Ah, to be a student! Filling one's mind with higher (hopefully) knowledge, networking with future comrades in the game of life, and having adventures which will provide nostalgia for years to come. That said, all of this glory can easily be overshadowed by one thing: student loan debt.
2020-01-25T19:08:00-07:002020-01-21T14:10:58-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:6688House Hunting and Renovation TV Shows – Fun Facts and Dirty Little Secrets
<a href="https://www.bestrealestateblog.com/house-hunting-renovation-tv-shows-fun-facts-dirty-little-secrets?m=SaEcKLeTzSvKBYzltxmv">House Hunting and Renovation TV Shows - Fun Facts and Dirty Little Secrets</a>
Photo licensed under Creative Commons. Television channels like HGTV and DIY have truly changed residential real estate for the better. Thanks to these channels, buyers and sellers today are more educated about their homes' structures, décor, and remodeling costs. Everybody's expectations are higher and most buyers and sellers' creativity is too.
2020-01-24T10:07:00-07:002020-01-21T14:08:32-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:668713 Zombie-Proof Homes For The Ridiculously Paranoid
<a href="https://www.bestrealestateblog.com/13-zombie-proof-homes-ridiculously-paranoid?m=SaEcKLeTzSvKBYzltxmv">13 Zombie-Proof Homes For The Ridiculously Paranoid</a>
Ever hear of the term "preppers?" These are the people that take it upon themselves to prepare for any possible apocalypse scenario you can imagine. Some carry their trusty "Zombie Survival Guide," everywhere they go. Some have coordinated escape plans in case of economic collapse.
2020-01-23T07:02:00-07:002020-01-21T14:06:38-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:6686 Go to Favorites 5 Moving Stories That’ll Make You Feel Better About Even Your Worst Move!
<a href="https://www.bestrealestateblog.com/moving-stories-thatll-make-you-feel-better-about-even-your-worst-move?m=SaEcKLeTzSvKBYzltxmv">5 Moving Stories That'll Make You Feel Better About Even Your Worst Move!</a>
No one really likes moving, do they? First, you have to buy roughly 83,586 boxes. Then, you've got to pack up literally everything you own. Then you have to load it on a truck securely. Next, you drive to your destination and pray the whole way that nothing gets broken in the process.
2020-01-22T14:00:00-07:002020-01-21T14:02:03-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:6685 Go to Favorites Here’s A Typical Open House. Except It’s A Haunted House Prank. And People Totally Lose Their Minds
<a href="https://www.bestrealestateblog.com/paranormal-activity-movie-haunted-open-house-prank?m=SaEcKLeTzSvKBYzltxmv">Here's A Typical Open House. Except It's A Haunted House Prank. And People Totally Lose Their Minds.</a>
Who said that real estate agents don't have a sense of humor?! In this video, several potential buyers are taken through a beautiful home under the guise of a typical showing. What they don't realize is that it's the original house used for the "Paranormal Activity" film.
2020-01-21T13:58:00-07:002020-01-21T14:00:00-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:6663What Does MLK Have To Do With Real Estate?
<a href="https://www.bestrealestateblog.com/mlk-real-estate?m=SaEcKLeTzSvKBYzltxmv">What Does MLK Have To Do With Real Estate?</a>
Fill in the blank... "I have a _________..." It doesn't take a psychic to know what word you chose. Was it "dream"? Good chance it was. We all know this line from Martin Luther King, Jr.'s famous speech. So when we hear those first three words, it sort of naturally comes to mind.
2020-01-20T12:24:00-07:002020-01-16T12:26:56-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:6667Is Shiplap Still ‘See’-Worthy?
<a href="https://www.bestrealestateblog.com/is-shiplap-still-see-worthy?m=SaEcKLeTzSvKBYzltxmv">Is Shiplap Still 'See'-Worthy?</a>
Over the last few years shiplap has been making waves as one of the most popular materials to incorporate in home decor. From walls and ceilings to wainscoting and focal points above the fireplace, you've probably seen these wide wooden panels all over the house. Previously used as exterior siding in the building of barns,...
2020-01-19T09:33:00-07:002020-01-16T12:35:30-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:6666Moving With Your Pets? Avoid These Mistakes
<a href="https://www.bestrealestateblog.com/moving-with-your-pets-avoid-these-mistakes?m=SaEcKLeTzSvKBYzltxmv">Moving With Your Pets? Avoid These Mistakes</a>
For most pet owners, pets are a part of the family. And so, of course, wherever the family moves? The pet moves, too. And while moving might be a stressful process for you, it's arguably even more stressful for your pet. Pets respond well to structure and routine-and so the packing, moving, and settling into...
2020-01-18T10:31:00-07:002020-01-16T12:33:42-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:6665Prices Of New Houses Fall As Builders Add More Entry-Level Homes
<a href="https://www.bestrealestateblog.com/prices-of-new-houses-fall-as-builders-add-more-entry-level-homes?m=SaEcKLeTzSvKBYzltxmv">Prices Of New Houses Fall As Builders Add More Entry-Level Homes</a>
One of the biggest challenges for would-be homeowners in recent years has been the lack of diversity of homes. Cities and towns across the country have seen a lack of starter or entry-level homes, making it more difficult for new or first-time homebuyers to enter the market.
2020-01-17T08:30:00-07:002020-01-16T12:31:36-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:6664Common Items In Your Home That Are Dangerous For Your Dog
<a href="https://www.bestrealestateblog.com/common-items-in-your-home-that-are-dangerous-for-your-dog?m=SaEcKLeTzSvKBYzltxmv">Common Items In Your Home That Are Dangerous For Your Dog</a>
Humans love their dogs. This, the purest kind of love, makes complete sense. Dogs are loyal, sweet, and the best companion anyone could ask for. They've been living paw-in-hand with us for thousands of years. They're part of the family and they stick with us through whatever's going on in our lives, so we wish...
2020-01-16T13:27:00-07:002020-01-16T12:29:02-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:6654Home Sellers: Appeal To First Time Buyers By Knowing What They’re Looking For In A Home
<a href="https://innercircle.lightersideofrealestate.com/articles/market-news/current-market-news/home-sellers-appeal-to-first-time-buyers-by-knowing-what-theyre-looking-for-in-a-home">Home Sellers: Appeal To First Time Buyers By Knowing What They're Looking For In A Home</a>
Everyone has a different idea of the "perfect" starter home. But there are some home features that are more popular with first-time homebuyers than others-and if you're thinking about selling your home, it's important you know what, exactly, those features are. A recent survey from home insurance resource Clovered found that the features first-time buyers...
2020-01-15T13:07:00-07:002020-01-15T13:08:36-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:6589Renovating Your Home Yourself? Beware Of These Common Injuries
<a href="https://www.bestrealestateblog.com/renovating-your-home-yourself-beware-of-these-common-injuries?m=SaEcKLeTzSvKBYzltxmv">Renovating Your Home Yourself? Beware Of These Common Injuries</a>
There are plenty of reasons why you might take a DIY approach to renovating your home. Maybe you enjoy working with your hands. Maybe you're looking to save money. Maybe you want to tackle a fun, challenging DIY project with your partner or family. But whatever your reason, there's one thing you need to keep...
2020-01-13T07:07:00-07:002020-01-07T17:09:32-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:6588Despite The Convenience of Digital Tools, Most Consumers Still Prefer To Close In Person
<a href="https://www.bestrealestateblog.com/despite-the-convenience-of-digital-tools-most-consumers-still-prefer-to-close-in-person?m=SaEcKLeTzSvKBYzltxmv">Despite The Convenience of Digital Tools, Most Consumers Still Prefer To Close In Person</a>
Technology has made a variety of real estate transactions significantly more convenient; instead of filling out paperwork in person, digital contracts allow you to conduct virtually all of your real estate business online from wherever you are. But there's one transaction the majority of people still prefer managing in person-and that's closing on a house....
2020-01-12T17:02:00-07:002020-01-07T17:05:45-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:6587Tis The Season for Home Buying
<a href="https://innercircle.lightersideofrealestate.com/articles/market-news/current-market-news/tis-the-season-for-home-buying">Tis' The Season For Home Buying</a>
The holidays are right around the corner, which means it's the best time of the year for festive parties, eggnog, and giving (and receiving!) the perfect gifts. And, apparently, it's also the best time of the year to buy a home. According to a recent analysis from real estate data firm ATTOM Solutions, the best...
2020-01-11T16:42:00-07:002020-01-07T17:01:11-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:6586Homeowners Are Feeling Less Financial Strain Than Renters
<a href="https://innercircle.lightersideofrealestate.com/articles/market-news/current-market-news/homeowners-are-feeling-less-financial-strain-than-renters">Homeowners Are Feeling Less Financial Strain Than Renters</a>
The US Census defines cost-burdened households as a household that spends at least 35 percent of their monthly income on household costs (including their mortgage, utility bills, property taxes, and other costs associated with homeownership). In other words, cost-burdened households are households that may feel a significant financial strain (or burden) as a result of...
2020-01-10T14:37:00-07:002020-01-07T16:40:10-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:6585The Hottest Kitchen Design Trends For 2020, According To The Expertshttps://www.bestrealestateblog.com/the-hottest-kitchen-design-trends-for-2020-according-to-the-experts?m=SaEcKLeTzSvKBYzltxmv2020-01-09T16:32:00-07:002020-01-07T16:37:06-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:65834 New Year’s Resolutions To Improve Your Home4 New Year’s Resolutions To Improve Your Home
Whether you enjoy making New Year’s resolutions or scoff at the idea, there’s something inherently motivating about seeing a fresh page on the calendar. If you don’t want to join the masses who hit the gym or vow to go on a digital diet, you may want to resolve to set some goals on behalf of your home.
Chances are, you spend a lot of time in your home, so why not make sure it’s as energy-efficient, safe, and comfortable as possible? If you’re a homeowner, making some New Year’s resolutions—and then following through—may pay dividends all year long.
Take a look at four improvements that are easy to implement and won’t break the bank. In fact, some may even put money back in your pocket.
1. Conserve energy
If you’re not quite ready to install solar panels on your roof, you can still save energy (and money) by conducting your own energy audit.
Are lights often left on in rooms nobody is in? Is electricity powering things that aren’t even in use? Commit to turning off lights in rooms you’re not using and unplugging gadgets that aren’t being used or charged. According to Natural Resources Defense Council (<a href="https://www.nrdc.org/sites/default/files/home-idle-load-IP.pdf" rel="noopener" target="_blank">NRDC.org</a>), Americans waste approximately $19 billion on inactive electronics or devices every year. From your coffee maker to your laptop computer, you may be squandering energy and dollars. Give a quick look around and see where you can conserve and save.
Moving on to larger items, be sure to properly maintain your heating and cooling systems so they’re operating optimally. If you have an older model unit, you may want to consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient system to save money and enjoy a more comfortable environment.
Also, look for leaks around your windows and doors. If you find any, caulk the drafty areas or consider installing new energy-efficient windows and doors, which will help you keep heat or air-conditioning in your home where it belongs.
Installing low-flow showerheads also allows you to cut water costs at the same time you’re conserving this precious resource.
2. Do a safety check
Knowing your home is safe and secure offers priceless peace of mind. If you didn’t change the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in the fall, now is the time to do it. It’s also worth noting that smoke alarms have a lifespan of seven to 10 years, while carbon monoxide detectors last between five and seven years. If you’ve had yours for longer than these timeframes, it’s wise to replace them as soon as possible.
A seldom discussed, but just as real hazard, is your dryer’s lint trap. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, highly-combustible lint, which builds up in your dryer’s trap, accounts for more than 15,000 building fires per year. So make sure those are cleaned out.
But, just in case of an emergency, you’ll want to have an escape plan with two exit routes in place. If you haven’t worked those out, make it a priority in the new year.
Do an outdoor inspection and make sure all your stairs and railings are secure. Installing motion-sensing flood lights above your garage or in your backyard can make entering and exiting your home a bit safer for you, while at the same time deterring would-be burglars.
3. Deep clean and declutter
It’s not all about safety and savings, though! Making a resolution to love where you live can make your year more enjoyable, and a good way to do that is to give it a serious cleaning.
You can check this one off your list by simply hiring a house cleaner to do it for you. But if you want to save the money, just pick a room and get going. Work in manageable increments so you don’t feel overwhelmed. If you do, take a break but don’t give up. From washing bedding and windows to deep-cleaning your appliances and even your gutters, you’ll love the results that go hand-in-hand with freshly-scrubbed spaces.
To keep your place spic and span over the course of the entire year, set some small goals that ultimately make a big difference. For example, vow to put away all your clothing at the end of each day, deal with your junk mail the day it arrives, keep an ongoing donation box handy so you’re not holding on to items you no longer need or want.
4. Plan for the coming years
The new year is a great time to take stock of what needs to be fixed or improved in the future.
Could you benefit from a landscaping upgrade, new roofing, decking, or patio? How about painting or replacing furniture? If you’re outgrowing your current home, are you considering an addition?
If so, you may not be able to knock all of them off the list in the next year, but just resolving to do them and forming a plan can be worthwhile goal and achievement.
Once you have a list of what you want and need to get done, you can begin budgeting for these. From nice-to-have to the absolute necessities, prioritize your upcoming expenses so you can either start saving or looking into a home equity loan or line of credit.
Are you thinking about moving? If so, you’ll want to tackle those projects a buyer will notice, or a home inspector will surely catch sooner or later, so your home shines and fetches top dollar.
You don’t have to entirely renovate or remodel to enjoy home improvements. Start with these four resolutions, and by the end of the year, your home will be a better place to live.2020-01-08T08:22:00-07:002020-01-07T16:27:09-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:6584 January Expected To Be An Active Time For Homebuyers To Start Looking
<a href="https://innercircle.lightersideofrealestate.com/articles/market-news/current-market-news/january-expected-to-be-an-active-time-for-homebuyers-to-start-looking">January Expected To Be An Active Time For Homebuyers To Start Looking</a>
The temperatures may be dropping outside-but for house hunters, things are just about to start heating up. A recent analysis from realtor.com found that while most people believe spring to be the hottest season for homebuyers, house hunters are starting their search earlier in the year-and January has become one of the most active times...
2020-01-07T17:28:00-07:002020-01-07T16:31:33-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:63626 Ways To Winterproof Your Home This Fall
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6 Ways To Winterproof Your Home This Fall<img src="https://innercircle.lightersideofrealestate.com/wp-content/themes/innercircle/images/drop_down_arrow.png" alt="" style="color: #000000; font-size: 12px;" />
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If you want your home to make it through the winter months unscathed, you’ll need to take the proper measures to protect it. In other words, you need to winterproof your home.
But if you wait until you’re hearing Christmas carols on the radio to take the necessary steps to protect your home, you’ll be too late. Here are 6 ways to winterproof your home this fall so your home is ready for the cold temperatures, snow, and whatever else the season wants to throw at it:
1. Store patio furniture
Winter isn’t the time for barbecues and dining alfresco, so it’s important that you protect your grill and patio furniture in the winter months — that way, they’ll be ready to roll when the weather starts to warm.
Take your patio furniture and grill and put them into storage. This is especially important if you have aluminum patio furniture, which can rust once the snow hits. If you don’t have a place to store your grill and furniture (or if your furniture is made of a more durable material), you should at the very least cover it up to protect it from the elements.
2. Empty and store hoses
You’ll also want to store your garden hoses before the temperature drops. If you leave your hoses as is, the water in them can freeze, which can cause holes and leaks.
Drain each of your garden hoses and store them inside until the spring.
3. Protect your home from chilly winter air
One of the trademarks of winter is cold air, and if that cold air finds a way into your house, you’re likely to find yourself shivering no matter how high you turn up the heat.
It’s important to seal off your house to keep cold air from getting in. Look for any gaps in the walls or foundation and seal them with foam or caulk (you can also use caulk to seal any gaps around windows). If your home is notorious for being cold in the winter, you’ll also want to check the insulation. Your attic and basement should be insulated, and if the insulation is old or improperly installed, it can cause dropping temperatures in the colder months.
Redoing or adding insulation isn’t cheap, so if you’re unsure of whether your insulation needs an upgrade, consult an insulation professional and get an estimate.
4. Get the right thermostat
One of the most important ways to protect your home in the winter is keeping it at the proper temperature. But “proper temperature” is relative; obviously, you’ll want your house warmer while you’re home, but it’s fine to turn down the heat while you’re out. But if you turn OFF the heat, you run the risk of the temperature dropping too low.
A programmable thermostat will allow you to control the temperature in your home at all times. You can program your thermostat to automatically lower the temperature when you leave, and raise the temperature before you get home so you get to return to a nice, toasty environment. Many of the new thermostats even connect to your smartphone, allowing you to control the temperature in your home straight from your mobile device.
5. Switch to winter fabrics
When the winter chill kicks in, you’re going to want lots of warm, cozy fabrics to keep you warm. Replace your summer linens with more substantial fabrics, like velvet, fleece, or faux fur, to match the season. Put a throw or blanket in one of these fabrics in each room so you always have something on hand to wrap yourself up with when the temperature drops.
6. Replace your furnace filter
Old, dirty filters will make your furnace less efficient, driving up your energy bills and making your home more difficult to heat. Replace your furnace filter this fall to ensure that your furnace is in tip-top shape when winter hits.
Colder temperatures are on their way, so it’s important to protect your home while you still have time. And with these winterproofing tips, getting your home ready should be a cinch.
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2019-10-28T06:55:00-07:002019-10-22T13:00:39-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:6361Don’t Fall In Love With A House Before You Are Ready To Fully Commit
Don’t Fall In Love With A House Before You Are Ready To Fully Commit<img src="https://innercircle.lightersideofrealestate.com/wp-content/themes/innercircle/images/drop_down_arrow.png" alt="" style="color: #000000; font-size: 12px;" />
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<img src="https://innercircle.lightersideofrealestate.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/dream-home-commit-cover.jpg" alt="" width="700" height="366" />
Finding the house of your dreams might seem pretty easy.
You know what you want and like. You feel like you will know the perfect house when you see it. The minute you find “the one”, it will be love at first sight. It will just feel right, like it was meant to be.
Kind of like the notion of finding your soulmate.
Back in the day, finding your ideal house or soulmate was a lot trickier.
Until…the Internet.
Nowadays, there are tons of websites for people to find the love of their life…and just as many to help people find the home of their dream.
The Internet has made it easier to find “the one”…in love, and housing.
But just because it is easier for you to find your soulmate, or your “soulhouse”, doesn’t mean you are in any position to do something about it.
Fate can only take you so far. Reality has to be dealt with…
Your “relationship” status in terms of housing has to be considered.
Are you “married”?
Let’s say you are married…
All of a sudden, you stumble into your someone who you feel is your soulmate somewhere. Could be at work, online, at a bar, at the gym. Doesn’t really matter.
Let’s put all debate about “right” or “wrong” aside… You decide to ditch your significant other, and follow the passionate path, and marry this new man or woman.
You’re going to have to deal with your marriage. You can’t ignore it. It is an issue. You can’t still be married, and actually marry your newly found soulmate. You could fool around. You could have an affair. But you aren’t getting married without ending the marriage you already have.
It’s kind of the same thing if you find the house of your dreams…
If you already own a house, it’s like being married. Most people don’t have the ability to buy another house, without selling the house they already own.
So, what do you do?
Should you sell the house you already own first, and just hope your dream house appears once your house is sold?
Or do you keep your eyes open for your dream house, find it, fall in love, and then scurry to get your house sold as quickly as possible, before your dream home gets scooped up by someone else?
There is no easy solution to this.
Are you seriously “dating”?
There is a lot more to ending a marriage than there is when you are simply dating someone.
So, if you are dating someone, and you fall head over heels for someone else, you can end things a little more quickly and easily. But, of course there will most likely be some headaches and heartaches to deal with.
Renting is like dating.
If you are renting a house or an apartment, and you come across the house of your dreams, you are probably not going to find it is the perfect timing. Maybe you will have to try and end your lease early. Or maybe you will have to continue paying your rent until the lease ends.
But these are not huge issues in the grand scheme of things. You are in better position to go after the house of your dreams, than someone who is married to a house they already own.
Are you “single”?
A lot of people look at being single as undesirable. Even more so if you are living at home still with your parents.
Let’s face it, if you you’re looking for your soulmate, you probably don’t want to fess up to living in your childhood bedroom, or your parent’s basement. It doesn’t sound all that impressive or intriguing.
(Whatever…if someone is truly a soulmate, they should be totally cool with you being a cellar dwellar!)
Not owning a home, or even renting your own place is like being single.
As unimpressive as this scenario sounds to some people, this is the best scenario to be able to act upon finding your dream home. You have nothing to sell, and no lease to worry about. This is as good and easy as it gets.
Did you get “divorced”?
Things happen in life. Life throws curveballs. People grow apart. People make mistakes. People split up. People hurt each other. And people who go through a breakup often have “emotional baggage”.
Plenty of people end up getting “divorced” from their own home…
Having a short sale, or a foreclosure in your past is like having gotten divorced.
This doesn’t mean you are unworthy of finding and getting your dream home. But it might affect you being able to get it. It depends on a lot of factors.
Get some pre-“marriage” counseling.
Most people do not really consider their current housing “relationship” when they start looking for their dream home.
It usually starts off as some wishful thinking. Maybe browsing a few websites…just seeing what’s out there. Then it progresses to flirting with possibilities, perhaps.
Before you know it, there you are…in love with the house of your dreams. So, you call a real estate agent who “introduces” you to the house in-person.
Sure enough, it’s “the one”!
Maybe you’re in position to jump on the chance to follow your heart…
But, unless you’re “single”, most likely you are not. And it is absolutely heartbreaking. You aren’t ready for the new relationship. You need to deal with the one you already have.
The best way to avoid any heartache is to put yourself in the best possible position to grab your dream home when you find it.
This doesn’t mean you need to be absolutely “single” before you start looking for your dream home. But you do need to have a plan in place as to how you will transition from your current housing relationship, into one with the home of your dreams.
There is no one solution, or even an easy solution.
The best solution is to call a real estate agent before you start your search.
Let your agent put on his or her “marriage counseling” hat, and advise you on the best way to plan for and make the transition from your current housing relationship, to the one of your dreams.
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2019-10-27T08:52:00-07:002019-10-22T12:55:14-07:00Mark Cabaltag:markcabal.com,2012-09-20:63606 Ways Your Real Estate Agent Is Like Your Best Friend
6 Ways Your Real Estate Agent Is Like Your Best Friend<img src="https://innercircle.lightersideofrealestate.com/wp-content/themes/innercircle/images/drop_down_arrow.png" alt="" style="color: #000000; font-size: 12px;" />
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You want to work with a real estate agent who’s nice to be around. It’s stressful enough buying and selling houses. No need to work with someone you don’t get along with.
But it’s not like you’re looking to be friends with your real estate agent…let alone best friends.
More often than not, you end up becoming friends with your real estate agent.
The weird thing is, you don’t even realize how much of a friend you’ve become to each other, until you’re done buying or selling a house.
Sure, you both promise to keep in touch. And you do. But it’s not the same.
Here are 6 ways your real estate agent feels like one of your best friends.
1. Do I look fat in this?
Ahhh, that old question. Only a true friend can answer you honestly when you ask this question. Heck, a best friend will probably tell you even if you don’t ask.
Maybe your agent would too…
But more importantly, think about all of the houses your agent talked you out of “wearing” because it didn’t fit you quite right either.
Your agent cared more about you, and how you felt in the house you bought, than just smiling, being nice, and saying, “You look great in this house!”
2. OMG, don’t ever tell anyone I said that!
Your mother-in-law is a total pain in the ass.
It just slipped out. You even used the word “ass” when you said it to your agent.
It was probably at that moment you became like best friends. You knew, without even asking, that she’d never breathe a word of that to your mother-in-law, your spouse, or any other living soul. That was between you two. Your agent’s got your back.
And, your agent totally took that into account when showing you houses just a liiiiiitttttle bit further away from your mother-in-law’s house.
3. You get a little jealous.
You see your agent’s car driving past you on the other side of the road. Immediately, a smile breaks out on your face. You roll down your window and stick your arm out! You wave like a lunatic!
But, as the car gets closer you see there’s other people in her car. They’re laughing. Having a grand old time. Such a good time that your agent blows by you without even seeing you, let alone waving.
Was that another client?! Could your agent possibly be having that good of a time with anyone else?
You feel a little jealous. Or is it hurt?
You realize your agent needs to make a living, but, c’mon… are those clients THAT much more fun to work with than you?!
You vow to figure out a way to buy and sell more houses every year so that you are his/her only client.
4. But, you still want the best for your agent.
You quickly realize it’s impractical to be an agent’s only client. And you start to remember how he/she truly wanted the best for you in your life…beyond even just the home you bought or sold.
So, your jealousy is fleeting. You come to terms with it. You want him/her to be happy, even if it’s with another person.
But, you also don’t want to see your agent out with any old clients, so you always make sure refer your friends and family who need to buy or sell — people you know will treat your best friend (strikethru) agent right.
5. You truly miss seeing each other.
While you were working together, you saw each other more than once a week. But once the deal was done, there just wasn’t enough reason (or time) to get together every week anymore.
You both promised you would get together, even after the deal was done. But then you realize it’s been close to a year since you even grabbed coffee together.
You realize that you truly miss hanging out together. You start to feel like it would be easier to get together if you’d just sell your house, rather than try and grab coffee.
6. You turn your agent’s head.
You don’t realize it, but every single time your agent drives by your street, let alone your house, he/she turns and looks.
Why? For the off-chance you’ll be outside, or driving out of your neighborhood? Just to catch a glimpse of you? Just to wave?
No…
Because you’re always on your agent’s mind. Even if you haven’t seen each other in ages. Even if he/she is out having a great time with other clients. Even if it seems he/she is too busy to catch up and see you.
Your agent is busy making a living in a demanding career…but NOT too busy for YOU. Your agent does truly consider you a friend. And like a best friend, your agent will always be there for you when you truly need real estate assistance of any kind.
Don’t forget that.
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Mark & Brenda
Cabal
Keller Williams Realty
The Mark Cabal Team
Realtors®, Real Estate Agents
Arlington, Texas
682-233-0324
We provide the most professional, informative, loyal and dedicated service in the industry. The best interests of our clients will always come first and we will place the clients' concerns ahead of our own in each and every transaction, as we are dedicated to the development of long-term client relationships! Our team-approach philosophy ensures your needs are important to each and every member of our organization.Our Team enhances our quality of life by putting God first, family second, and being active in our church and community and giving back the gifts God has given to each of us.
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2019-10-26T17:44:00-07:002019-10-22T12:52:43-07:00Mark Cabal